A portable storage device, often referred to as a flash drive or thumb drive, can be connected to a mobile device running the Android operating system to expand its available memory. This allows users to transfer files, such as photos, videos, documents, and other data, between the mobile device and a computer or another compatible device. An adapter, typically utilizing a USB On-The-Go (OTG) connection, facilitates this connectivity.
The utility of employing external storage solutions with Android phones lies in addressing limited internal memory capacity. This method provides a convenient way to back up important files, transport large media collections, and free up space on the phone for applications and system updates. The emergence of this technology addressed a user need for greater data management capabilities on mobile platforms.